Transformational Project was a Good Bet for County Residents

The $330 million investment by Rush Street Gaming and the Galesi Group transformed a long vacant brownfield and eyesore into a waterfront tourist and entertainment destination that is generating millions of dollars in tax revenue for Schenectady County, the City of Schenectady, and local school districts.

“Schenectady County wishes the Rivers Casino and Resort a very happy first anniversary,” said Anthony Jasenski, Chair of the Schenectady County Legislature. “The Rivers Casino has been a transformational project for our waterfront, generating millions of dollars in tax revenue while creating 1,100 new jobs for our residents.”

The casino opened ahead of schedule on February 8, 2017, with the construction creating more than one million hours of good paying construction work. The casino has exceeded its hiring goals and now employs 1,100 people. Total first year payroll was $43 million. The casino and adjoining hotel pay full property taxes plus sales tax and hotel occupancy taxes. The casino has helped to trigger direct and indirect investment in the City and surrounding areas. The facility paid a total of $53 million in taxes in its first year of operation. Schenectady County received more than $2 million in gaming revenue, $440,000 in mortgage tax, $546,000 in property tax, $2.5 million in casino licensing fees plus sales and hotel occupancy taxes. The Casino also helped accelerate $39 million in infrastructure projects including the new train station, new roads, bridges, sewer lines, lights, trails, and docks.

“By creating economic development momentum, increasing local government revenue and creating 1,100 new jobs, the Rivers Casino & Resort has been a good bet for Schenectady County and our residents,” continued Chair Jasenski. “We look forward to many more years of excitement at Rivers Casino & Resort along our beautiful new waterfront.”